Assessment of scalp acupuncture and auricular point pressing for unilateral neglect in injured athletes post-stroke: a focus on recovery and fitness

Abstract

Unilateral neglect, a prevalent cognitive deficit post-stroke, impedes the patient's ability to perceive stimuli from the world opposite the stroke-affected brain hemisphere, affecting visual, auditory, and tactile awareness without direct sensory or motor loss. Notably, this condition is more common following a stroke on the right side, with incidences ranging from 13% to 81%, and can reach up to 65% in patients within the initial 2-3 days’ post-event. The presence of unilateral neglect significantly complicates the rehabilitation process for stroke survivors, including injured athletes, by extending the recovery period and diminishing the potential for limb function restoration. This, in turn, increases the dependency on assistance for daily activities, thereby impacting not only physical fitness but also the overall quality of life. The integration of scalp acupuncture and auricular point pressing emerges as a promising therapeutic approach, offering a potential pathway to mitigate these challenges by enhancing functional recovery and facilitating a more self-sufficient lifestyle for those affected.